2021 Nissan Kicks vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX, available in NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport gasoline models, carried forward the brand's signature design elements. Its sharp, sculpted exterior lines gave it a familiar Lexus appearance, akin to the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX's dimensions were comparable to the Toyota RAV4, featuring standard power-folding mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added a sportier touch with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior, maintaining Lexus's high standards for material fit and finish. However, the interior design, particularly the center stack, felt dated compared to competitors like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson and 2021 Nissan Rogue.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior updates, aligning its design with the new faces of the Nissan Armada and Rogue. The Kicks featured a bold V-motion grille, thinner headlights, and a redesigned rear with LED taillights. The SR trim level added LED headlights and fog lights, enhancing its sporty look. The Kicks offered a variety of new paint options and a two-tone paint job, emphasizing its stylish design. Inside, the Kicks maintained its practical layout with improved materials, inspired by the 2020 Nissan Sentra. The SR trim included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, with the option for Prima-Tex-appointed seating in the SR Premium Package.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Its six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with some engine noise under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available, allowing up to 50% torque transfer to the rear axle. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The NX offered three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, affecting throttle response and steering assist. It had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While not powerful, the Kicks' power-to-weight ratio was suitable for its size. Its electric power-assisted steering and independent strut suspension provided nimble handling. The Kicks excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The SR trim included an integrated dynamic-control module with features like active engine brake and intelligent ride control. The Kicks' braking system varied by trim, with rear disc brakes on the SV and SR models. It also offered standard traction control, stability control, and hill start assist.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a comfortable and upscale interior, with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom for rear passengers. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. However, cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with seats folded. The NX provided a quiet cabin, typical of Lexus, with minimal road and wind noise. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available, along with power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks maximized its small size with easily accessible controls and good small-item storage. It featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable front seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks offered best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited for larger drivers. The available tonneau cover provided hidden storage in the rear cargo area. The SR trim included a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort in colder climates.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Navigation package added features like predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. The standard audio system had eight speakers, with an upgrade to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions, and a 10-year subscription to Enform Services Connect was included.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth as standard. The SV trim added features like Nissan Intelligent Key and remote engine start. The SR Premium Package included a Bose Personal Plus sound system with eight speakers, providing immersive sound. The Kicks also offered a surround-view monitor and a WiFi hotspot with over-the-air updates. NissanConnect services were available for added convenience and security.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification. The NX came with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks included Nissan Safety Shield 360, with features like automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert. It had 10 airbags and standard LATCH connections. The 2020 Kicks received "Good" crashworthiness scores from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Kicks had a strong recall history, with only one recall in recent years.